Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts

Name: Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed salad greens; 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced; 1 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese; 1 cup candied walnuts; 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts during the fall season. The combination of sweet, juicy pears with the sharp, creamy Gorgonzola cheese is simply irresistible. The candied walnuts add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that brings everything together beautifully. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress my guests and makes for a perfect addition to any festive table. Simple yet elegant, this salad can be enjoyed as a light lunch or an elegant side dish.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:43:15.182Z

When I first attempted this salad, I was immediately struck by how well the ingredients complement each other. The creamy Gorgonzola pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pears, while the candied walnuts round out the flavors with their nutty sweetness. One detail that truly enhances this dish is to let the walnuts cool completely after candying; it makes them perfectly crunchy.

Since then, I've made variations with different dressings, but I always come back to a simple balsamic vinaigrette to keep the focus on the key ingredients. For the best results, choose ripe pears for that perfect bite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The harmony of flavors between sweet pears and tangy Gorgonzola.
A delightful crunch from the homemade candied walnuts.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion.

      

The Magic of Pears and Gorgonzola

Pears are not just sweet; they bring a silky texture that beautifully complements Gorgonzola’s creamy sharpness. Choosing the right pear is crucial—go for ripe Bartlett or Anjou pears, which soften slightly when sliced and add juiciness to the salad. Avoid overly ripe pears, as they can become mushy and disrupt the overall balance of this dish.

When combining these flavors, allow the pears to soak in the balsamic vinaigrette for a few minutes before serving. This step enhances their sweetness and marries wonderfully with the tangy cheese. The result is a delicious harmony of tastes that creates a layered experience with each bite.

Crafting the Candied Walnuts

The candied walnuts in this salad are a highlight, bringing both texture and flavor. When preparing them, keep a close eye on the heat. Once you add sugar and water to the skillet, constantly stir until the mixture turns an amber color—this signals the sugar is caramelizing. If it darkens too quickly, it can burn. Remember, you want a glossy finish, not a charred taste.

If you find yourself short on walnuts, pecans make an excellent substitute. Their flavor pairs well with Gorgonzola, offering a similar crunch. For a spiced version, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper into the sugar mixture for a warm, seasonal kick.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
1 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
1 cup candied walnuts
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Candied Walnuts

In a skillet, combine 1 cup of walnuts with 1/4 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and starts to caramelize. Spread the mixture onto parchment paper to cool.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Add the cooled candied walnuts.

Dress and Serve

Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Your Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding thinly sliced red onions or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds.

Serving Suggestions

This Pear and Gorgonzola Salad can serve as a charming starter for a holiday dinner or a light centerpiece for a spring picnic. For an added protein boost, consider grilling some chicken or adding roasted chickpeas on top. Both options complement the existing ingredients while enhancing their flavors.

To elevate the presentation, serve the salad on chilled plates or in clear glass bowls, which allow the vibrant colors of the greens, pears, and cheese to shine through. Don’t hesitate to garnish with extra candied walnuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added visual appeal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time, it's best to prepare the components separately. Keep the candied walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can stay crunchy for up to a week. Wash and dry your salad greens, then store them in a sealed bag lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture.

As for the pears, slice them just before serving to prevent browning. If you need to prep ahead, consider tossing them in a little lemon juice to maintain their color. Mix everything together right before serving for the best freshness and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad right before serving to keep the greens crisp. You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

While Gorgonzola is the star here, blue cheese or feta can be great alternatives.

→ Are there any substitutes for the candied walnuts?

Yes! You can use regular walnuts, pecans, or even skip nuts entirely for a nut-free version.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Replace the cheese with avocado or a nut-based cheese and use a vegan dressing.